s savoy elementary school in southeast but on this day they're -- >> just like michael jackson. >> a teacher directss from atop an suv parked right on f street. >> i want them to go anywhere they can go. >> reporter: savoy was traditionally a very low performing school but they were selected to get extra resources, things like art supplies and musical instruments. the award goes to schools that are about to turn the corner. >> i was born and raised right here in southeast, 2519 minnesota avenue. to come back to that community and see how the program is making kids want to come to school being making parents want to get involved, the volunteers. it is build the community. unit -- it is building the community. >> reporter: they practiced for a month. >> every day. we practiced this. >> we put a lot of effort in it. >> i feel happy because we get to express something that we never did before and i feel good about it. >> reporter: when you saw your face with the make-up, what did you think? >> i was frightened. like some type of creature. >> reporter: savoy's test scores are ticking up a